Shikoku Karst Plateau
Japan's second-largest karst plateau straddles the Ehime-Kochi border at 1,400m — a sweep of white limestone outcrops, grazing dairy cows, and unobstructed Pacific views.
Half–full day
Free
Always open; road: typically accessible Apr–Nov (check road conditions in winter)
May–October
About 1 h 45 min–2 h drive from Matsuyama (two routes: approx. 75 km or 85 km); no direct public transport to the plateau
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The road crossing the plateau is one of Shikoku's great drives — no guard rails, open sky
- 2
Local Tosa beef and dairy products sold at roadside stalls
- 3
Star gazing here is exceptional — near zero light pollution at 1,400m
Local Tips
The Shikoku Karst plateau runs along the Ehime-Kochi border at 1,400m — the white limestone outcroppings among green highland pasture create a landscape more reminiscent of Ireland than Japan. Wild cows graze among the karst formations. Drive the 15km ridge road for continuous panoramic views of both the Seto Inland Sea and Pacific Ocean on clear days.
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